News Release

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Hit and Run Traffic Collision Leaves two Students Injured NR12439cj

Los Angeles: On Tuesday, September 17, 2012, around 7 p.m. LAPD Valley Traffic Division Officer’s received a traffic collision call at the intersection of Vanowen Street and Ranchito Avenue. When they arrived they found two girls suffering from injuries. Los Angeles Fire Department rescue personnel responded and transported the girls to a nearby hospital.

The officers’ investigation revealed that a truck traveling eastbound on Vanowen Street approaching Ranchito Avenue failed to stop for a red tri-light traffic signal and struck the two 14-year-old girls who were walking to school crossing within the marked intersection. The driver of the truck failed to identify himself or render aid. The impact of the collision caused one of the girls to suffer life threatening injuries while the other girl suffered moderate injuries.

The suspect’s truck was described as a late 80’s or early 90’s, 2-door, Chevrolet pick-up truck. It was faded green with a broken windshield and equipped with an iron rack around its bed containing possible gardening tools. The suspect is described as a 30-year-old male Hispanic with an oval face and facial hair. He was also wearing a baseball cap.

Anyone who may have witnessed or have information regarding this collision contact the Los Angeles Police Department, Valley Traffic Detectives at 818-644-8000, or Detective III Bustos at 818-644-8021 During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.